Punjab Province

Lahore: ReNews Pakistan
A fact-finding study by the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP), in collaboration with the European Union (EU), has revealed serious shortcomings in the design and delivery of water, sewerage, and drainage services in Lahore, raising concerns over citizens’ fundamental human rights.
The report titled “Urban exclusion in access to water and sanitation in Lahore” identifies fragmented governance, lack of coordinated planning, and conflicting departmental priorities as major hurdles in delivering equitable and rights-based services. The absence of a fully empowered local government has further weakened accountability, oversight, and citizen representation in municipal affairs.
Rapid urbanisation, unregulated development, and poor maintenance of water and sanitation infrastructure have intensified the challenges. The HRCP study emphasizes that access to safe water and sanitation is essential for fundamental rights including health, housing, and security. It highlights the increased vulnerability of marginalized communities, noting that transgender persons frequently face denial of access to washrooms in government buildings, while individuals with disabilities encounter a complete lack of accessible facilities.
The report also points to climate change as a key factor affecting water systems, with altered rainfall patterns, extreme weather events, and rising temperatures impacting urban drainage and sewerage networks.
Recommendations include legislating the human right to water and sanitation, improving access in informal and low-income settlements, ensuring inclusive sanitation facilities, reducing water wastage, protecting sanitation workers, and promoting community-based complaint mechanisms. The study also advocates for water-sensitive urban planning that balances ecological sustainability with supply targets.
In response, WASA Lahore Managing Director Ghufran Ahmad disputed the findings, citing local environmental standards and existing initiatives. He noted that arsenic levels in Lahore’s water range between 20-25 ug/L, below the national safe limit of 50 ug/L, and emphasized ongoing projects for drainage improvement, rainwater harvesting, and replacement of aging sewerage lines under the Lahore Development Programme.
The study raises critical questions for policymakers and service providers about equitable access, sustainability, and accountability in Lahore’s water and sanitation sector, highlighting the intersection of human rights, urban planning, and climate resilience.

Kasur : Sadaf Arshad District Reporter | ReNews Pakistan
The Kasur district administration has successfully installed thirteen (13) new fire hydrants at major commercial areas and sensitive locations, now fully operational to enhance public safety and ensure rapid response during emergencies.
According to official sources, the hydrants have been strategically placed near high-traffic routes, markets, and government buildings to provide immediate access to water in case of fire, minimizing potential damage.
District officials said that the installation of these hydrants will significantly reduce fire brigade response times and establish an effective safety network across the city, particularly in areas prone to fire hazards.
Local residents and community representatives have welcomed the move, stating that it will improve public safety while also safeguarding commercial activities.
The district administration confirmed that further measures will be taken to maintain and expand the fire safety and emergency response infrastructure, ensuring preparedness against potential risks.

Lahore | Husnain Aulakh, Special Correspondent | Re News Pakistan
Chief Minister of Punjab Maryam Nawaz's Apni Chhat Apna Ghar housing initiative is transforming thousands of lives across the province, with significant progress reported.
According to official figures, a total of 131,305 families have benefited so far, while construction of 80,248 houses has been completed. Additionally, 46,787 housing units are currently in their final stages of construction.
More than Rs 181 billion has been utilized for the construction of houses under the scheme, while recoveries amounting to Rs 7.3 billion have also been made.
A spokesperson for the Housing Department stated that implementation of the Apni Chhat Apna Ghar program continues in a transparent, swift, and efficient manner. Construction activities are ongoing in both urban and rural areas across Punjab.
The spokesperson further clarified that offices have been established throughout the province to ensure outreach to deserving families. Moreover, the online application process has been designed to be simple and accessible for applicants.